The WIFIA loan will be directed towards upgrading aging infrastructure and integrating new technologies to ensure the water supply system meets current and future demands. As these regions experience rapid growth, these improvements will enhance the reliability and sustainability of the water supply, addressing critical needs exacerbated by population increases and environmental challenges.
“We have an entire series of projects that will help both expand and improve the infrastructure that serves the entire Toho Water Authority footprint that is the City of St. Cloud, the City of Kissimmee, Osceola County, and the Poinciana area of Polk County,” CEO and Executive Director of Toho Water Authority Todd Swingle said after the announcement.
The WIFIA program, established by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014, provides long-term, low-cost loans for crucial water and wastewater infrastructure projects nationwide. Administered by the EPA, the program seeks to accelerate investment in projects of regional and national importance, providing financial support to communities undertaking essential infrastructure upgrades.
With the WIFIA loan, Toho Water Authority officials plan to expand several water treatment facilities and install a network of water mains and pump stations. These enhancements aim to reduce dependence on fresh groundwater by optimizing the use of both potable and non-potable water resources.
“We are proud to announce the $188 Million federal loan to Toho Water Authority to increase water supply, to protect clean water, and to make sure we’re going to have enough clean water for the next generation,” U.S. Congressman Darren Soto shared at Tuesday’s Toho Water announcement.
Tuesday’s announcement took place at the Toho Water Authority’s administration building, with key attendees including Congressman Darren Soto (FL 9th District), Cesar Zapata, EPA Region 4 Acting Deputy Regional Administrator, Todd Swingle, CEO and Executive Director of Toho Water Authority, and Mae Wu, Deputy Assistant Administrator of the U.S. EPA’s Office of Water. The Toho Water Authority, established in 2003, serves 160,000 customers across St. Cloud, Kissimmee, Poinciana, Sunbridge, and other unincorporated areas of Osceola, Polk, and Orange counties, with a dedicated workforce of roughly 500 employees.
In 2020 Toho Water Authority secured a $40 million loan through the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act, which contributed to the financing of the Kissimmee Accelerated Gravity and Sewer Assessment and Rehabilitation Project. This $81.9 million initiative, now nearing completion, has not only modernized critical infrastructure but also created 198 jobs, bolstering the local economy.
Established in 2003, Toho Water Authority serves 160,000 customers across St. Cloud, Kissimmee, Poinciana, and the unincorporated areas of Osceola, Polk, and Orange counties. With a dedicated team of approximately 500 employees, the authority continues to play a vital role in ensuring the region’s water needs are met efficiently and sustainably.
